What must directors and officers prioritize according to the Duty of Loyalty?

The Duty of Loyalty is a fundamental principle that requires directors and officers of community associations to act in the best interests of the association as a whole, rather than prioritizing their own personal interests. This means that any decisions made by these individuals must focus on what is beneficial for the community and its members, ensuring that the organization’s resources and opportunities are used for its intended purposes.

When directors and officers put the interests of the association ahead of their personal interests, they uphold trust within the community and prevent conflicts of interest that could harm the association’s reputation and operations. This commitment to prioritizing the association's interests directly supports effective governance, fosters community trust, and enhances the overall functionality of the association.

The other options do not align with the Duty of Loyalty, as prioritizing personal financial gains, competitive opportunities, or the interests of specific community members can lead to conflicts of interest and undermine the primary obligation that directors and officers have to the association and the larger community they serve.